Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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349. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he plans to classify donkeys as heritage animals in view of their historic role in Irish society; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56733/21]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's Genetic Resources Grant Aid Scheme has been in place since 1996. The Scheme has an annual call for projects aimed at supporting the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources for food and agriculture.

Projects are evaluated by an advisory committee, representing broad national stakeholder interests. Over the years, funding has been provided to a diverse range of projects, including conservation initiatives.

Whilst, at the present time, I am not aware of any projects which involve the classification of donkeys as a native breed, applications and expressions of interest are welcomed from all individuals, groups and bodies to submit projects for the further development of genetic resources conservation in Ireland. Projects applications for the 2022 grant scheme call will be accepted up until Friday 17th December 2021.

Details and contact details are available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/5d767-genetic-resources-grant-aid-scheme/

Completed applications can be sent either by email to geneticresources2020@agriculture.gov.ie